Nutritional Attributes as Predictors of Coronary Heart Disease

Abstract

Background: Diet is an important modifiable risk factor for coronary heart disease (CHD). However, the influence of some groups of food intake on CHD has shown inconsistent findings. Objectives: This study aimed to identify the relation of the dietary habits, Vitamin D, serum lipids, and anthropometric measures of the participants with CHD. Methods: A retrospective case-control study was conducted at Al-Remal Clinic, Gaza City. The study included 50 cases of symptomatic CHD and 50 controls, chosen by convenience sampling method. Data were collected by direct methods that included measurement of serum levels of lipids and Vitamin D, and indirect methods using a structured interview questionnaire. Results: The mean of servings per day of fruits and vegetables was lower in CHD patients than controls ( P = 0.004, and P = 0.001, respectively). Vitamin D deficiency prevailed in CHD patients (odds ratio, 3.78; 95% confidence interval, 1.65 - 8.65). The mean serum level of triglycerides was higher among cases ( P = 0.02), while the mean of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol was lower in CHD patients ( P = 0.001). Waist circumference (mean) was higher among cases ( P = 0.01). Conclusion: Traditional risk factors including unhealthy diet, and Vitamin D deficiency could be associated with the development of CHD.